Black in time: The best black ceramic watches for men

4 May 2017

Ceramic cases make for some tough, uncompromising yet handsome watches and are the perfect rugged alternative to a classic black tie watch. Whether you like a chronograph complication or prefer a more minimalist watch, here is our pick of the best black ceramic watches for men.

Tudor Fastrider Black Shield

Tudor Fastrider Black Shield

The Black Shield chronograph is ideal for boat life thanks to its scratch-resistant, corrosion-proof ceramic case, which is guaranteed waterproof to 150 metres. The engraved tachymetre bezel could also be useful for speed and distance calculations and the watch can be supplied with a leather strap or a more sea-worthy rubber.

Panerai Luminor 1950 GMT Tuttonero

Panerai Luminor 1950 GMT Tuttonero

Panerai’s historic Luminor 1950 model, with its patented crown protector, gets a stealthy “Tuttonero” upgrade: an all-black ceramic case and bracelet. The in-house P.9001 self-winding movement offers a second time zone indication and three day power reserve.

Bell & Ross BR 03 Rafale

Bell & Ross BR 03 Rafale

This special version of the square BR 03 chronograph has a 42mm, matt black ceramic case and pays tribute to the Rafale multi-role fighter jet made by French aviation company Dassault. The monochrome grey dial and orange details reflect the plane’s livery – and only 500 examples of the watch will be made.

IWC Big Pilot's Watch Top Gun

IWC Big Pilot's Watch Top Gun

IWC’s original Big Pilot Watch dates back to 1940, when it was introduced for supply to Germany’s Luftwaffe. This modern take on the design combines a black 46mm ceramic case with a tough textile strap and contains IWC’s self-winding movement with “hacking” seconds for accurate time setting.

Chanel J12 Intense Black

Chanel J12 Intense Black

Created in 1999 by Chanel’s late artistic director (and passionate sailor) Jacques Helleu, the J12 is said to have been named after the J Class racing yacht. Possibly the most successful all-ceramic watch ever made, the J12 is available in numerous guises – this Intense Black version features a 38mm case and “black on black” dial.

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